Tag: how to change money in Iran

If you’re traveling to Iran, bring major hard currency (USD/EUR) and plan to use cash international credit and debit cards are mostly unusable inside Iran. Exchange at licensed bureaux (sarrafi) in cities for best rates and avoid exchanging large sums at airports. Read on for practical, up-to-date steps and a pre-travel checklist. Fast facts: Rial, Toman & the 2026 redenomination Currency name: Iranian rial (IRR). Locally people commonly use toman (1 toman = 10 rials). Redenomination (2026): A phased plan to remove zeros is in progress expect dual pricing and transitional confusion. Confirm the unit (rial vs toman) before paying. Volatile exchange rates: Rates can move quickly; check live rates on travel day and compare licensed bureaux. Cash vs Card, what actually works Cash is king. Bring USD or EUR (newer-series banknotes in good condition). Many vendors, clinics and hotels prefer hard currency or local-currency cash. International cards: Most foreign Visa/Mastercard do not work inside Iran due to banking isolation. Tourist-specific local debit cards exist via some travel services set these up before travel if you want card access. ATMs: ATMs generally require local bank cards. Do not rely on foreign cards for cash withdrawal. Where to exchange money (safe & practical) Airport Exchange a small emergency amount at arrival (e.g., the equivalent of 30–100 USD). Airport rates are usually worse use only for immediate needs like taxis. Licensed exchange offices (Sarrafi) City sarrafis (licensed bureaux) offer the best balance of safety and competitive rates. Compare 2–3 bureaux before exchanging large sums larger cities (Tehran, Shiraz, Isfahan, Mashhad) have many options. Avoid unofficial dealers for big amounts Street exchangers may offer attractive rates but carry counterfeit and legal risks. For substantial exchanges, use a licensed sarrafi, a bank branch, or a managed exchange service through a travel operator. Black-market vs